Emergency Response Grant for Small Businesses and Nonprofits

The City of San Diego’s Economic Development Department (EDD) will be providing emergency relief grants up to $2,500 per applicant, with a 100% bonus (for a total of $5,000) for applicants located in the Promise Zone, Opportunity Zones, or Low-Moderate Income Census Tracts. EDD will be prioritizing businesses located in under-resourced communities and high-impact storm-affected areas for these grants. Eligible businesses and nonprofits are awarded funding based on a reimbursement basis for documented storm-related expenses incurred. This grant is funded through Small Business Enhancement Program (SBEP) funds, which are intended to provide continuing support to small businesses in recognition of their vital economic, employment, service, and cultural roles, and their importance in sustaining and revitalizing older commercial neighborhoods and adjoining residential areas. SBEP funds are determined from annual Business Tax Certificate collections. The total amount available is approximately $370,000. This grant program will be periodically reviewed and updated based on available funding and participation levels. Eligible Business Applicants To be eligible, the applicant must be a commercial occupant of the subject property. The business must meet the following requirements: -Be located within high-impact storm-affected areas within the City of San Diego. -Have an active (paid as of 2/12/2024) City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate. -12 or fewer employees. -Be independently owned and operated. -Priority will be given to businesses and nonprofits located on the ground floor.